Heat Stress WARNING Issued by SafeWork NSW

SafeWork NSW has issued Australian businesses with a warning about worker heat stress, in response to a heatwave hitting Australia’s East in November 2015, following a similar event in October.

Executive Director of SafeWork NSW, Peter Dunphy said heat stress or heat illness is a serious condition that could result in organ failure or death if working in hot conditions was not managed safely.

“Fatigue and heat stress are major causes of injury during the summer months,” Mr Dunphy said, adding that in the three years to July 2014 there were 228 worker compensation claims for workplace fatigue and heat stroke.

“Many workers have been seriously injured or died while working in hot conditions,” he said.

“[Heat stress] can reduce a worker’s performance and productivity, plus increase the chance of injury by reducing the ability to concentrate, recognise risks and communicate effectively.”

Dunphy said outdoor workers and those working in hot environments and confined areas such as roof spaces were most at risk.

He urged workers and employers to take care, keep an eye on colleagues and make efforts to “be informed how to work safely in the sun and hot conditions”.